Into the Quiet

“Snow was falling,
so much like stars
filling the dark trees
that one could easily imagine
its reason for being was nothing more
than prettiness.”
― Mary Oliver

How has your new year been so far? After a calm weather period during the holidays, it has been so cold and snowy here in the Northeast. I started my new swim class of the year, diligently bundling up in sweaters and boots afterwards (yes, the class is indoors!), and walking to my car to 2 degree weather.

Cold, yes. But the swim class has lifted me up, reminding me of how much I love a chance to move my body, especially under the water. I’m taking a simple aqua balance class twice a week at the Y, and what a difference in how it makes me feel.

This is typically the time of year when we want to lose weight, start new goals. It’s a good time to re-evaluate what’s working and what to leave behind. I am trying to work on balance. I stand on one leg in swim class while pulling my other leg up and holding it. Sometimes I can stand perfectly still; other times I cannot! But I don’t mean just physical balance. I mean overall balance in my life between work, family, and play.

Life is so busy. I scratch my head over how hard people are expected to work these days. It seems like there is never enough time in a day to get it all done. More sales, more meetings, more internet time. Maybe it’s time to take a step back.

So I am Into the Quiet as of late. Yes I am still trying to accomplish much. Yes, I am working on my business and following up on leads. But I am usually wrapped up in my sweater at night, reading or watching a favorite show. I spend time with my mother. I made time to make chocolate chip cookies. I can take a break from accomplishing.

Jim has been putting dried corn out in our back yard for the deer. I have been filling up my bird feeder. Around dusk the deer will sometimes come. The other night we had six deer come for a visit. One was a six point, one a four point. There were some yearlings too. The birds come all day and visit the feeder. What do they remind me of? Peace. Quiet. Why? Because I stop and watch them. I am still.

So here’s to the new year. A chance to work, but also a chance to rest. To establish new habits of quality time with myself and slow down just a bit. To listen, and to hear myself.

15 Replies to “Into the Quiet”

Nice post…beautiful pictures! I am trying to start Pilates again because it is something I enjoy. I love the instructor and I don’t want to go somewhere else, but I might have to because she has not started up again like she promised. BUT there ARE extenuating circumstances that I am aware of, so I forgive her. It is an hour just for ME and in my life I need that time. I started this with a friend and I need that time also. Something away from home, away from the kids and yes, away from my wonderful husband, LOL! He works from home and we are together 24/7.
Into the Quiet? Sounds like a place I need to find in my own life. I am happy you have found yours!

I work at it all the time Cathy! I have a tendency to take on alot of things and I have to set boundaries and take time for myself.
I hope you find a Pilates class just for you. You deserve it!
xo Joanne

Truly, truly beautiful, Joanne! When I look at these lovely photos, I feel like I’m missing out on something extraordinary, quiet and lovely to the soul. It was never 2 degrees when I was growing up in the northeast, and now it seems that’s a usual winter there. It is rather bitter, but there seems to be a chance to find the warmth within the heart; to snuggle into ones spirit and regain what is truly important. And it sounds like that’s what you’ve been doing.

Hi Marianne, Well, I am really trying! It’s easier since I’m not working full time, but I still like to overload myself while working on my business. I am truly trying to take a step back and not over commit. I am trying to find “warmth within my heart”- (I actually love that you said that). Thank you! Blessings, Joanne

Hello friend,
eating my breakfast on the West Coast
reading your thoughts
smiling
Have I mentioned lately how I feel when I visit your blog?
Every single time I come to visit I feel bathed in Grace.
I love how you are allowing yourself time for calm in the New Year.
Hugs,
D

Hello my dear! So glad you love the deer pics. It is truly mesmerizing when they come around. We all (Jim, my daughter) stand next to the window, almost afraid to breathe. We love the deer and are always in awe of their magnificence. xo

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Hi There!

I’m a Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania blogger, published author, wedding/event planner, and a recovering perfectionist! I love to look for grace in everyday life. Love, marriage, faith, children, and grandchildren are my favorite topics. Join me as I look for joyous moments.

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